How do you travel with a baby?
The first question you'll ask yourself when planning your holiday is where to go so that you can relax and enjoy your holiday with your baby!
1. Which destination should you choose?
The advantage of this type of destination is that you can travel light. You'll find everything you need on the spot, even if you forget a dummy, a bottle, etc. Leaving with peace of mind and a suitcase that's not too heavy is essential when you're a young parent!
The great thing about holidays by the sea is that they're ideal for relaxing and unwinding!
Choose a destination close to a big city to avoid any logistical problems, and make sure you're well equipped to protect your child from the sun!
A little tip: avoid the beach between 11am and 4pm!
Hiking is an ideal way to get away from it all, let your thoughts flow and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. Just beware of the altitude! Don't take your little one above 1,500 metres before the age of three. If you do have to go above this altitude, work in 500 metre increments to go up. And be sure to protect your little one from the sun!
Disadvantage: You'll need to carry a bit more to bring warm and/or cooler clothes to adapt to changing weather conditions.
There are a number of issues to consider:
- The journey often takes longer;
- Meals can be more complicated! You have to be careful with the water, as some is not suitable for children under 36 months. And for baby food, you'll have to spend a bit of time trying to find some.
- And when it comes to nappies, you'll have to forget your usual model (unless you pack the necessary quantity in your suitcase)!
In the end, it's up to you to decide whether this is right for you or whether it's better to travel abroad when your child is older.
2. Which means of transport is best suited to travelling with your baby?
It all depends on your preferences, but here is a non-exhaustive list of the advantages of each form of transport:
The advantage is that you can take what you want with you and leave at a time that suits your child best. What's more, they tend to fall asleep easily in the car!
On the other hand, choose a route beforehand on which you can make regular stops, and don't forget to put your child in a car seat suited to their age and weight!
Choose the TGV rather than the TER, where there's a changing area (you can warm up a bottle, change a nappy, etc.) and, if possible, book first-class tickets for extra space! If you need to take a cosy with you, remember to reserve a seat on the train for your child! This will give you more space to rest!
A little tip: take a train 30/45 minutes before your child's usual nap time, and to avoid stress, make sure you have plenty of food, water and nappies in case of delays.
In the end, it's getting on the train and the connections that are the most stressful moments, but if you plan ahead and travel light, you'll have no trouble getting through them!
Travelling by plane with a baby can be stressful, but it's perfectly possible. You should know that when you travel by plane with a baby, you are entitled to two childcare items in the hold, free of charge. You are also entitled to an extra piece of cabin baggage!
A little tip: book your seat near the emergency exit, so you have more space to put your baby in. Some airlines also offer specially adapted carriers in which you can put your baby to sleep.
3. What type of accommodation is best for a baby on holiday?
Don't cut corners on accommodation and size for your holiday - it'll make life easier! The most comfortable accommodation for you and your baby is one that has 2 bedrooms or a bedroom separate from the living room, so that you're free to do as you please during your baby's nap!
A hotel is a good option, but a flat or house is even better! It's easier to feel at home. It's also easier to wash your clothes, so you don't have to worry so much about your suitcases.
Check that the accommodation has a cot or that yours fits in the bedroom, and that it has a high chair.
Don't hesitate to read other travellers' reviews to get an idea of the welcome given to children.
Here is a non-exhaustive list of essential equipment when travelling with a baby:
- Umbrella bed (if the accommodation does not offer one);
- Baby carrier and/or pushchair;
- Nappies for a maximum of 4/5 days (unless you can't find any at your holiday destination);
- Clothes for a maximum of 5/6 days, to be washed on site;
- Microfibre bath towels that take up little space, if necessary;
- Jars of baby food - check beforehand whether or not you'll be able to buy enough locally;
- For mums who are breastfeeding, don't forget the breast pads, even if you think you don't need them any more! The rhythm of breastfeeding is often disrupted when travelling.
What if you're travelling with an older child or teenager?
1. Which destination should you choose?
They're now old enough to go anywhere! However, when choosing a destination, don't forget to look at the attractions in the surrounding area in advance, so that they are suited to your child's age and interests.
If you're travelling with a young child, it's best to choose a destination with age-appropriate activities, such as theme parks, zoos or aquariums. For teenagers, you can choose a more cultural or adventurous destination.
2. Which mode of transport should I use?
The choice of transport when travelling with a child or teenager depends on a number of factors:
- The distance to be travelled,
- Your budget,
- And above all your child's age and abilities: a young child will need more comfort and safety than an adolescent
- The car is a practical choice for short journeys. It can be more economical than taking the plane or train for large families, you can bring your own snacks and drinks and adapt your journey according to your child's age so that you can take longer or shorter breaks along the way.
- Flying is the fastest way to cover long distances, but with a family it can quickly become a bit expensive!
- The train is a comfortable and relaxing way to travel. It's also a good option for families with young children, as trains often offer child-friendly services.
Whichever means of transport you choose, it's important to take your child's or teenager's preferences into account when choosing transport. If your child is afraid of flying, it's best to choose another means of transport! Also, make sure that your child has something to occupy him or herself throughout the journey and explain what's going to happen so that he or she can anticipate!
3. Which accommodation to choose for your holidays?
To make your holiday enjoyable for everyone, here are our tips for choosing suitable accommodation during your holiday:
- Hotels are a practical and comfortable option. Many hotels offer family rooms with bunk beds or sofa beds. Some hotels also offer child-friendly facilities, such as a swimming pool, kids' club or babysitting service.
- If you are travelling with older children, flats offer more space and comfort than hotel rooms. Some flats also offer a fully equipped kitchen, so you can prepare your own meals.
- For families who want more space and privacy, holiday homes can be located in quieter, more secluded areas than hotels or flats.
- For families who want to enjoy nature, campsites offer family-friendly facilities such as playgrounds, swimming pools and children's activity programmes.
Final tips:
- Rent accommodation that offers services adapted to the age of your children;
- Read other travellers' reviews to get an idea of how children are treated,
- Let your teenager have his or her own space!
Travelling with children is a unique adventure that can be a source of joy and unforgettable memories. By following these tips, you can make your trip a successful experience for the whole family. And don't forget to book your activities in advance, especially if you're travelling in high season!